This general non-lab science survey course provides basic instruction in physical, life and earth science, necessary for high school graduation. High school completion only. Students may earn 0.25-1 HS credit. This course may be repeated.
Prerequisites
Students must be referred from participating school district and registered in a Basic Skills Open Doors class.
Course Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to demonstrate the following knowledge or skills:
- Identify aspects of life science including structure and function of living organisms, processes within cells, ecosystems, stability of populations, and the mechanisms of evolution.
- Demonstrate and explain physical science properties including force and motion, newton’s laws, matter, chemical reactions, and transformation and conservation of energy,
- Describe earth science including evolution of the universe, earth systems, and evolution of the earth
- Critique information presented online and in media to determine if the information is “scientific and credible”5.Increase computer literacy and proficiency in using technology for academic and professional purposes.
Course Content Outline
Life Science (two of the following topics)
- Characteristics and Organization of Life Genetics, DNA and Human Biology
- Introduction to Evolutionary Theory and Natural Selection Ecosystems
- Cells: Their Structures and Functions
Physical Science (two of the following topics)
- Chemical Reactions Solutions and Mixtures
- Energy
- Newton’s laws of force and motion
- Atoms, Elements, Isotopes, Ions, and The Periodic Table
Earth Science (two of the following topics)
- Environmental Science and Natural Resources including Renewable Energy Water Cycle and Water
- Necessity for Life
- Basic Geology and Geological Forces
- Plant Earth and the Earth Building Processes
- Weather, Clouds, Atmosphere, Heat and Thermal Energy
- Evolution of the earth and/or the universe